Name: The State of OpenSearch User Groups: Building a Global Community - Kris Freedain, Amazon Web Services
Start: 2025-05-01T09:30:00+0200
End: 2025-05-01T10:00:00+0200

In-person
30 April - 1 May 2025
Learn More and Register to Attend

The Sched app allows you to build your schedule but is not a substitute for your event registration. You must be registered for OpenSearchCon Europe 2025 to participate in the sessions. If you have not registered but would like to join us, please go to the event registration page to purchase a registration.

Please note: This schedule is automatically displayed in Central European Summer Time (UTC+02:00). To see the schedule in your preferred timezone, please select from the drop-down located at the bottom of the menu to the right.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Timing of sessions and room locations are subject to change.

Thursday May 1, 2025 09:30 - 10:00 CEST

Matterhorn

In this talk, OpenSearch Community Manager Kris Freedain shares the journey and insights gained from building OpenSearch's global User Group program. From its humble beginnings following OpenSearchCon 2022 to its current widespread presence, discover how a community-driven initiative evolved into a structured, yet flexible global program. The presentation explores the key elements that made this expansion possible: establishing scalable frameworks, empowering local leaders, and creating consistent-yet-customizable branding and communication channels. Through real-world examples, including the successful launch of the Chicago user group and subsequent global expansion, Kris discusses both the challenges faced and solutions developed in building sustainable local communities. Learn about the tools and infrastructure that support these groups, the benefits of participation for individuals and organizations, and how this initiative continues to strengthen the broader OpenSearch ecosystem. Whether you're interested in joining, speaking at, or starting a local user group, this talk provides practical insights into community building at scale.

Keywords: OpenSearch, Community Building, User Groups, Developer Relations, Open Source

Speakers

Kris Freedain

Community Manager, OpenSearch, Amazon Web Services

Kris Freedain is the Community Manager for the OpenSearch Project & OpenSearch Software Foundation technical steering committee. He has experience in community engagement, digital marketing, support, and release management throughout his career, contributing to various initiatives... Read More →

Thursday May 1, 2025 09:30 - 10:00 CEST
Matterhorn

Keynote Sessions

OpenSearchCon Europe 2025

Kris Freedain

Sign up or log in to save this to your schedule, view media, leave feedback and see who's attending!